July 7, 2002

TRIADELPHIA, WV — Former Golfapalooza Champion, JT Thomas, has been working diligently to regain his pre-marital swing and it seems to paying dividends.  The former champ cracked 90 this morning and seems to think the best is yet to come.  "I have improved tremendously and am very excited about the progress I have made, but if look back at the last two years at Alpine Lake, it couldn't have gotten much worse."  By no means has Thomas regained his championship form, but he has certainly minimized the bad shots.  JT broke 90 for the first time this summer firing a sizzling 89.  "It could have been a lot better.  I'm hitting some really good shots but I can not get off the tee with a driver.  I'm hitting three irom right now and I have hit some long irons into the green.  I am confident that the next 80 or so days will bring lots of practice and I will not dissappoint at GVI." Thomas says he has been practicing nearly three to four times a week at the driving range to ready himself for the inaugural Thomas Open next weekend.  "For two years I have been the laughing stock at family golf outings because of the sudden breakdown of my game.  I don't know if I can win this week, but I know I can at least contend again."  Thomas also adds, "We have had a few last minute withdrawals from the tournament and are still looking for a few players."  Golfapalooza legend Rob "Grundo" Magruder has signed to play on Saturday of the two day affair and will unfortunately not be eligible for the title.  "It's a shame the Grundo will not make the Sunday time at the beautiful Palmer course.  I know he could have contended."  Thomas also says he is working to sign another founding father, GStan, to the Saturday card.  "Having legends play on saturday will certainly boost the gate for the event".